As spring approaches and outdoor play returns, students at Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School and across the Old Rochester Regional community are stepping up to make sure every child has a chance to engage in outdoor activities.
This April, two donation drives will collect new and gently used sports balls to benefit local children in need, in partnership with GiftsToGive, an organization dedicated to supporting children in need across the region.
The goal is simple yet powerful: collect basketballs, soccer balls, footballs, volleyballs, baseballs, and tennis balls — anything that can still hold air and give them a second life in the hands of children who may not otherwise have access to sports equipment.
Sports Ball Donation Drive Drop-Off Locations:
- Old Colony RVTHS
476 North Ave, Rochester, MA
Dates: April 1st – April 9th
(Collection takes place during school days only)
ORR Community Donation Drive Drop-Off:
Donations will be accepted at the following schools:
- Old Rochester Regional Junior and Senior High School
135 Marion Rd, Mattapoisett, MA
- Old Hammondtown School
20 Shaw St, Mattapoisett, MA
- Center School
17 Barstow St, Mattapoisett, MA
- Rochester Memorial School
16 Pine St, Rochester, MA
- Sippican School
16 Spring St, Marion, MA
Dates: April 13th – April 17th
(Collection takes place during school days only)
Each donated ball represents more than just sports equipment — it’s an opportunity for a child to stay active, build confidence, and connect with others through play.
Organizers Trent Arancio and Chad Herbert say their inspiration for the project came from past experiences and a shared desire to make a meaningful impact.
“I already did a GiftsToGive event in the second grade with my grandmother at my elementary school for a clothing drive, and I was really interested in doing something big for my senior year that had an impact like I did in the second grade,” Arancio said. “Chad and I didn’t want to do something small like plowing snow or cleaning up a trail. We wanted to make a difference that could change kids for the better because we both would like to see more kids outside, even growing up in a generation where video games, iPad, and iPhones are such a common boredom solver.”
Their connection to GiftsToGive has remained strong over the years.
“As I said earlier, my grandmother and I go a few times a year and drop stuff off, as my church — Lakeville United Church of Christ — has a donation basket where clothes can be dropped off,” Arancio shared. “Chad and I thought it would be a good idea to partner up with a company with such a reputable name around the community of helping people in need.”
While the pair doesn’t have a specific numerical goal, their vision is clear.
“Chad and I have big aspirations and want a big goal,” Arancio said. “We don’t really have a specific number in mind, but we want to make a difference. The one thing that we want is for more people to be outside and be active, and to have the ability to help the less fortunate.”
With strong community support, this initiative aims to turn everyday donations into lasting impact — one ball at a time.
Story by (Marissa Sebastiao)